Top 10 Must-Have Hunting Accessories for Buffalo and Bison
Gear up for the ultimate challenge: hunting one of North America’s most iconic and elusive species.
Hunting buffalo and bison is not for the faint of heart. These massive animals require skill, patience, and the right gear to ensure a successful hunt. From tracking their movements across vast plains to safely storing your hard-earned meat, having the right accessories can make or break your experience. If you’re ready to take on the challenge, this guide will help you gear up with the essentials.
Binoculars
Your eyes in the field, binoculars help you spot buffalo before they spot you.
Overview
Binoculars are indispensable for scanning the vast plains and spotting buffalo or bison from a safe distance. These animals often roam in large, open areas, making it crucial to have optics that provide clarity and range. High-quality binoculars ensure you can identify the herd and assess the terrain without spooking your quarry.
Benefits
- Spot buffalo from a safe distance
- Identify herd movements and behavior
- Reduce unnecessary walking or scouting
Notable Brands
- Vortex Optics
- Leupold
- Bushnell
Rangefinder
Because guessing distances is a recipe for missed shots.
Overview
A rangefinder is critical for accurately measuring the distance between you and your target. Buffalo and bison hunts often involve long-range shooting, and knowing the exact distance can make the difference between a clean shot and a missed opportunity. Modern rangefinders are compact, easy to use, and offer precise readings to improve your shot placement.
Benefits
- Accurate distance measurement
- Improved shot placement
- Reduced chances of wounding an animal
Notable Brands
- Nikon
- Sig Sauer
- Leica
Rifle Scope
A good scope turns a decent shot into a great one.
Overview
A rifle scope is essential for buffalo and bison hunting, where precision is key. These animals are large, but their vital zones require accurate targeting. A high-quality scope provides clear magnification, reliable adjustments, and durability to withstand rugged conditions. Whether you’re shooting at long range or in low light, the right scope can make all the difference.
Benefits
- Enhanced accuracy for long-range shots
- Improved visibility in low-light conditions
- Durability for tough hunting environments
Notable Brands
- Zeiss
- Leupold
- Nightforce
Shooting Sticks
Because steady hands are overrated.
Overview
Shooting sticks provide stability for your rifle, ensuring a steady shot even in uneven terrain. Buffalo and bison hunting often involves long waits and challenging positions, and shooting sticks help reduce fatigue while improving accuracy. They come in various styles, including monopods, bipods, and tripods, to suit different hunting scenarios.
Benefits
- Improved shooting stability
- Reduced fatigue during long hunts
- Versatility for various terrains
Notable Brands
- Primos
- Bog-Pod
- Vanguard
Hunting Backpack
Your mobile storage unit for all things hunting.
Overview
A hunting backpack is more than just a bag; it’s your portable command center. From carrying extra ammo and snacks to storing essential gear like rangefinders and field dressing kits, a quality backpack keeps everything organized and accessible. Look for backpacks with durable materials, ample storage compartments, and ergonomic designs to handle long treks.
Benefits
- Convenient storage for hunting gear
- Comfortable to carry during long hunts
- Durable and weather-resistant materials
Notable Brands
- Badlands
- ALPS OutdoorZ
- Eberlestock
GPS Device
Because getting lost is not part of the adventure.
Overview
A GPS device is invaluable for navigating the vast, open landscapes where buffalo and bison roam. These animals often inhabit remote areas, and a reliable GPS ensures you can track your movements, mark waypoints, and safely return to camp. Modern GPS devices offer detailed maps, weather updates, and even hunting-specific features to enhance your experience.
Benefits
- Accurate navigation in remote areas
- Ability to mark waypoints and track movements
- Enhanced safety during long hunts
Notable Brands
- Garmin
- Magellan
- Bushnell
Game Calls
Because sometimes you need to talk their language.
Overview
Game calls can be useful for mimicking buffalo or bison sounds to attract them or calm a herd. While not as commonly used as with other species, calls can still play a role in specific hunting scenarios. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and can give you an edge when trying to get closer to your target.
Benefits
- Attract buffalo or bison to your location
- Calm a herd for easier targeting
- Lightweight and portable
Notable Brands
- Primos
- Zink Calls
- Knight & Hale
Field Dressing Kit
Because processing a buffalo with a pocket knife is not ideal.
Overview
A field dressing kit is essential for processing your buffalo or bison after a successful hunt. These animals are massive, and having the right tools ensures you can efficiently field dress and prepare the meat for transport. Kits typically include knives, saws, gloves, and other tools designed for big game.
Benefits
- Efficient processing of large game
- Hygienic tools for safe meat preparation
- Compact and easy to carry
Notable Brands
- Outdoor Edge
- Gerber
- Havalon
Wind Checker
Because the wind always seems to blow the wrong way.
Overview
A wind checker helps you determine wind direction and speed, which is critical for scent control and shot accuracy. Buffalo and bison have keen senses, and knowing the wind’s behavior can help you stay undetected and improve your chances of a successful hunt. Wind checkers are lightweight, easy to use, and a must-have for any hunter.
Benefits
- Improved scent control
- Better shot accuracy
- Lightweight and easy to use
Notable Brands
- Dead Down Wind
- Hunter’s Specialties
- Primos
Cooler for Meat Storage
Because hauling 1,000 pounds of meat without proper storage is a nightmare.
Overview
A high-capacity cooler is essential for storing and transporting buffalo or bison meat after a successful hunt. These animals yield a significant amount of meat, and a durable, insulated cooler ensures it stays fresh during transport. Look for coolers with ample storage space, rugged construction, and excellent ice retention capabilities.
Benefits
- Keeps meat fresh during transport
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Ample storage for large quantities of meat
Notable Brands
- YETI
- Pelican
- Igloo